Winterizing

Thanks for your feedback! Yes, I read the thread and the owners manual. I just saw that video and thought I would see what members opinions are on it. It seemed like the guy in the video was cutting corners.

I am new here and recently purchased 95 Sport Nautique. We always had a mechanic winterize our previous Nautiques, however, I am wondering if this method of winterization is good or bad. Looking to do this myself.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qb9IdS-Z3DEhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qb9IdS-Z3DE

I fill my engine with Jell-O shots so it's ready in spring.

Kostas,
Some try to fill the block and in my opinion that's just a waste of antifreeze. Think about the drain only method that has been used for years, still is and works. If the engine is drained, the addition of say a gallon is simply an added safety precaution just in case there's a small pocket of water remaining.

Cumby wrote: Hey, ive read some people drive around with the boat on the trailer after they fill with antifreeze. Do you think that is necessary, or OK to just drop the bow some, drain and fill? Thanks

There sure are anal people out there that go way over what's needed! If fully drained, there's no water so there's no need to try and mix it up. Lowering the bow isn't a bad idea since the starboard block drain is forward in the block but, as Chris mentions, it does depend on the angle the boat is sitting on. I lower the bow if it's on a trailer but never if it's hanging in the boat house. Don't forget there is still the drain only method. I did it for years and now just throw in almost a gallon.

Just depends how anal you are. I live on a hill & got the bow down hill - got an extra quart of water out.   

Cumby wrote: Pete, if you leave the impeller in and do the drain and fill with antifreeze method, do you just drop it in and go in the spring, or do you need to do anything to lubricate the impeller? Im guessing the antifreeze level keeps the impeller submerged...so it doesn't get dried out?

Glen,
The antifreeze that ends up in the pump lubricates the impeller in spring. Yes, it's just connect the battery and turn the key. I do like to squirt some gas down the carb. BTW, I've mentioned it before that I leave my batteries in the boat but just disconnected.

8122pbrainard wrote: Strega51 wrote: Either way don't leave the impeller in there for the winter. What is the point. Dave, It sounds like you believe the BS about leaving a impeller in for lay up creates flat spots that harm the performance of the RWP. I have NEVER removed an impeller on ANY boat for lay up and have NEVER had a problem. Also I have gone years without changing an impeller.

Pete, if you leave the impeller in and do the drain and fill with antifreeze method, do you just drop it in and go in the spring, or do you need to do anything to lubricate the impeller? Im guessing the antifreeze level keeps the impeller submerged...so it doesn't get dried out?

I think it's a good idea to inspect every year. Changing every year is up to you. I think wether you change it or not I just think it's a good idea to leave it out for the winter. JMO.

Strega51 wrote: Either way don't leave the impeller in there for the winter. What is the point.

Dave,
It sounds like you believe the BS about leaving a impeller in for lay up creates flat spots that harm the performance of the RWP. I have NEVER removed an impeller on ANY boat for lay up and have NEVER had a problem. Also I have gone years without changing an impeller.

OK. RV antifreeze it is. I live in Texas, so In late November when I put my boat up for the winter (December-February) that's what I'll use.

If you are storing in a cold climate, why take the chance? Drain everything and put straight RV antifreeze back in. That way in January when the annual cold snap arrives, you're not worried about what you might find in the Spring.

skiermanbrad wrote: You guys that use RV antifreeze, do you mean RV Waterline antifreeze?

Yes. You can get it from any parts chain. Ive seen different brands and colors. Some is pink,purpleand blue. Its a safe antifreeze for camper plumbing,hot tubs pools and the forclosed homes often get it too. Its safe to drop in in spring and just fire your boat and go. No disposal.

I did the Mustang yesterday. I drained the block and manifolds and using the bucket method ran 2 gallons in. I then drained it again and got all but 1/2 gallon back. The 95 all I do is drain the block,manifolds,cooler,and strainer,blow out the heater and v drive with air then fill with antifreeze and drain the block and manifolds again.Raw water pump comes off too.

DO NOT add antifreeze without draining first!!! The RV is not meant to be diluted. There is NO guarantee that the antifreeze will push all the water out. Per the PCM manual (in the reference section), drain and pour in. It's easier that pumping!! All that I have ever used on any engine is a gallon. It will settle in the low spots.